Baked Scallops

What is a scallop? I did a little digging and found out that Starfish prey on scallops! NO! From wiki: The majority of (scallop) species, however, live recumbent on sandy substrates, and when they sense the presence of a predator such as a starfish, they may attempt to escape by swimming swiftly but erratically through the water using jet propulsion created by repeatedly clapping their shells together. Can you imagine a scallop being chased by a starfish and furiously clapping to run away? Poor scallops! Can a starfish even run? What is going on in the deep dark ocean and why don’t I know more about it?!

I do know baked scallops are delicious. My husband is a huge scallop fan, so I make these sometimes to make him happy. I used to not be a fan, but they’ve grown on me. Good thing they aren’t barnacles! These baked scallops soak up the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture to add texture, but the real star is how they soak up the butter. It enhances the rich, creamy flavor and makes us fight over the last little round muscle. It’s a crazy easy dish, and pairs well with a salad or roasted vegetables, as you see here. Short on time on a weeknight? Give these baked scallops a try- I know you’ll love them!

Ingredients

• olive oil spray

• 1 pound sea scallops

• 1/4 cup Gluten Free breadcrumbs or panko

• 1 1/2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon fresh minced parsley

• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/4 kosher teaspoon salt, divided

• fresh black pepper, to taste

• Juice of 1 lemon, divided

• 2 1/2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F and spray an 8 x 10-inch oval baking dish with olive oil or nonstick cooking spray.

2. Pat the scallops dry then spritz them with a little oil, sprinkle with salt.

3. In a small bowl combine the GF breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, oregano, 1/8 teaspoon salt and black pepper, to taste.

4. Arrange the scallops in a single layer in the prepared dish and top with crumb mix (easier), or roll scallops in the mix to cover completely.

5. Whisk half of the lemon juice, melted butter, and pour over the scallops.

6. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque.

7. Set the oven to broil on high and broil until the topping is golden, about 2 minutes.

8. Squeeze the remaining lemon juice over the scallops and serve. Enjoy!!